LTS Special Education Liaison (Anticipated January-June 2026) - Newman Elementary School (Nov-January)

Needham Public Schools•Needham, MA

About The Position

Needham Public Schools is an inclusive, dynamic, and multicultural community seeking an energetic, skilled, and warm LTS Special Education Liaison to join our team. To enhance our goals of supporting every child, Needham Public Schools seeks candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences. This position will join a motivated and dedicated special education team supporting one grade level through inclusion and pull-out services to students. This is an exciting opportunity to grow and develop special education techniques and skills to provide students with a positive and enriching educational experience. We are also fortuante to have a special education administrator on staff to support the team. About Needham Public Schools (NPS): NPS has a deep commitment to the success of our diverse students and families and to the professional accomplishments of its educators. Needham devotes itself to cultural proficiency, equity, and community collaboration to fulfill the vision of the Portrait of a Needham Graduate . This METCO district comprises 5 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 1 nationally-ranked high school serving approximately 5,500 students. NPS is committed to addressing equity in the district by focusing on improving academic performance for historically marginalized students and ensuring our schools are safe for every child and free of bias, bullying, and hurtful acts that demean and diminish. Read more about our equity work here . Position Purpose Under the general supervision of the Special Education Coordinator and School Principal to maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, interpersonal skills and activities of daily living by implementing district approved curriculum; documenting teaching and student progress/activities, outcomes; addressing students' specific needs; providing a safe and optimal learning environment. Conducts assessments, testing and diagnostic examinations of students for the purpose of identifying learning issues, and recommending courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning. Participates in team meetings and assists in developing Individual Educational Programs ("IEPs") for students. Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEP's and behavior management plans. Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff and related service providers to ascertain individual student's abilities and needs, including students with special needs. Serves as a ready resource to students and parents that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serves as liaison between home and school. Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research, and by maintaining professional relationships with members of institutions of higher learning and the business community. Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and provides student information and data in order to write progress reports. Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents. Assists in the orientation of new teaching assistants, and provides training and guidance as necessary. Priority will be given to applicants with Wilson training and/or certification. Provides direct instruction across the curriculum including accommodations and modifications per a variety of student needs. Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Requirements

Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, etc. as well as proven methods of maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs.
Knowledge of differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.
Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
Ability to organize and coordinate work.
Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
Ability to engage in self-evaluation and reflection with regard to performance and professional growth.
Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others.
Bachelor's degree
Massachusetts DESE certification in Moderate Disabilities

Nice To Haves

Wilson or Orton-Gillingham Certification Highly Preferred
Master's Degree in Special Education
Prior special education teaching experience

Responsibilities

Under the general supervision of the Special Education Coordinator and School Principal to maximize the learning experience of students with special needs, in academics, interpersonal skills and activities of daily living by implementing district approved curriculum
documenting teaching and student progress/activities, outcomes
addressing students' specific needs
providing a safe and optimal learning environment
Conducts assessments, testing and diagnostic examinations of students for the purpose of identifying learning issues, and recommending courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning.
Participates in team meetings and assists in developing Individual Educational Programs ("IEPs") for students.
Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students' IEP's and behavior management plans.
Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff and related service providers to ascertain individual student's abilities and needs, including students with special needs.
Serves as a ready resource to students and parents that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serves as liaison between home and school.
Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research, and by maintaining professional relationships with members of institutions of higher learning and the business community.
Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and provides student information and data in order to write progress reports.
Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
Assists in the orientation of new teaching assistants, and provides training and guidance as necessary.
Provides direct instruction across the curriculum including accommodations and modifications per a variety of student needs.
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.